This Thursday, I had the honor of participating in an amazing class on tackling controversial topics at Plaza Vista School in Westpark.

The class was Ms. Natalie Elliott’s “Scholars’ Writing Celebration.”

The fifth-grade students were required to present their written opinions on a controversial topic.

To do so, they were first required to research a controversial topic, organize their facts, and write a five paragraph essay with an introduction, three reasons in support of their claims, and a conclusion.

Wow!  I was impressed!

The controversial topics chosen by the students included “Is kneeling during the National Anthem disrespectful?,” Are the oceans over-fished?,” “Is heath care a right or a privilege?,” Should museums be free to the public?,” “Should the U.S. amend the 2nd Amendment?,” “Is climate change really happening?,” “Should school uniforms be mandatory?,” “Should professional athletes get paid less?,” “Should the U.S. government spend more on arts or on STEM?,” and “Should Donald Trump have a Twitter account?”

Each of the students orally presented their position paper, then took questions from other students, parents, and me.  Every one of the position papers was well argued and ably defended! Every one of the presenters was impressive in their passion and their poise.

Leaving the classroom, I felt extremely positive about the future — knowing that these Irvine young people will soon be running the world!